The combined impact of so-called ‘forever chemicals’ is more harmful to the environment than single chemicals in isolation, a new study shows.
The combined impact of so-called ‘forever chemicals’ is more harmful to the environment than single chemicals in isolation, a new study shows.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham investigated the environmental effects of microplastics and PFAS and showed that, combined, they can be very harmful to aquatic life.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that come from plastic bottles, packaging, and clothing fibres. PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a group of chemicals used in everyday items like non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, firefighting foams, and numerous industrial products. PFAS and microplastic are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down easily and can build up in the environment, leading to potential risks for both wildlife and humans.
Both PFAS and microplastics can be transported through water systems on long distances, all the way to the Arctic. They are often released together from consumer products. Yet, their combined effects, and also the ways in which they interact with other polluting compounds in the environment, remain poorly understood.
Read more at University of Birmingham
